Commissioners weigh $600,000 ambulance district request; agree to return in two weeks
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Summary
Jefferson County commissioners discussed a proposed $600,000 county contribution to a newly formed ambulance district. After debate about timing and budget sources, commissioners directed staff to return with a modified agreement and tentatively discussed splitting funding between ARPA and next fiscal year budget.
The Jefferson County Board of Commissioners discussed a formal request from a new ambulance district for $600,000 to support ambulance service startup and staffing. Fire and emergency-service representatives said the district needs funding to purchase ambulances and hire ALS personnel before an October service start date.
Commissioners and staff discussed possible funding sources, including ARPA (federal COVID-relief) funds, general budget allocations and potential future impact-fee revenue. County staff recommended a phased approach: an immediate payment of $300,000 from available ARPA funds and a $300,000 commitment contingent on next year’s budget appropriations. Staff said ARPA funds are available and may be carried forward into next fiscal years if not spent immediately.
County leaders asked department heads and the ambulance district to return with a revised memorandum of understanding or contract that would reflect a $300,000 payment now and a commitment for the balance contingent on budget approval. Commissioners opted not to finalize the agreement at the meeting; instead they agreed to table action and revisit the item in two weeks with a modified agreement and more precise payment language.
Why it matters: county officials said reliable local ambulance service is a community priority and could reduce dependance on out-of-area ambulance responses. Commissioners also noted competing budget priorities — including county detention center cost increases — and said they must balance near-term startup needs against fiscal discipline and other capital demands.
Next steps: the ambulance district and county staff will prepare amended agreement language and a memorandum of understanding for review at the next scheduled meeting; commissioners asked staff to identify specific ARPA allotments and precise budget impacts before final approval.